"I never gave importance to records" - Lionel Messi drops massive hint on his involvement at 2026 FIFA World Cup
Lionel Messi has clearly stated that he would participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup if his body allows him to. The Argentine icon also claimed that he's someone who doesn't chase records and isn't interested in the fact that it would be his sixth World Cup appearance.
Messi is now 36 years old and is clearly in the last leg of his career. The Barcelona legend also exited Europe once his contract at Paris Saint-Germain expired in 2023 and currently plies his trade in the MLS for Inter Miami.
Claiming that he's not interested in the individual milestones, Messi said in an interview with ESPN Argentina (@AlbicelesteTalk):
"I never gave importance to records. I wouldn't play in a World Cup just to say 'I was in 6 World Cups.'"
Many assumed that the 2022 World Cup would have been Messi's last. He led Argentina to the trophy, bagging seven goals and three assists throughout the tournament.
The Inter Miami superstar was also awarded the Golden Ball for being the best player in the competition. Adding that fitness will determine whether he will appear on the highest stage of international football once again, Messi said:
"As long as I feel physically fit and able to perform at my best, and continue to help the national team, I would like to continue being a part of it."
Messi is still performing well for his club side, having scored 14 goals and bagged 11 assists in just 15 appearances across competitions this season.
Lionel Messi's 'last club' comments may hint at his role in 2026 FIFA World Cup
Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in the summer of 2023 and is currently contracted with the club until December 2025. He stated in a recent interview that he will end his club career with the Herons.
Speaking to ESPN Argentina, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner said:
"It's (Inter Miami) going to be my last club."
With these comments, there may be concern over whether Messi would make it to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Should he fail to announce an extension, he would be without competitive football from the date of his Inter Miami exit to the start of the World Cup in the summer of 2026.
Therefore, if the World Cup is truly something that Messi is eyeing, an extension with the Florida-based side is likely. To date, he's made 29 appearances across competitions for the Herons, bagging 25 goals and 16 assists.